Abstract : A new method for the synthesis of five-membered rings has been discovered which appears to have very broad generality. It has provided a convenient synthetic route for cycl(3.2.2)azine. Further experimental studies on the properties of this molecule are in good accord with the predictions of molecular orbital theory. Attempts to prepare examples of other cyclazines have led to new compounds and some interesting experimental work but, in each case, the over-all synthetic scheme has failed at a crucial stage. (Author)